Sami Arquitectos’ stunning E-C House is an island retreat nestled among ruined walls

Placed within the the crumbling rock walls of a ruined ancient building, this gorgeous new concrete home designed by Portugal's SAMI Arquitectos follows the outlines of its predecessor, while infusing the space with a modern atmosphere and lots of light. The two-story CASA E/C was built as a holiday home on an island in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean for a Lisbon-based couple. The dark basalt walls that surround it engage with the terraces and deck that extend beyond the ruins to create an engaging interplay between old and new.

The architects introduced large windows to every living room and bedroom, ensuring that the interior receives optimal amounts of natural lighting. These generous openings also provide stunning views of the island and its poetic landscapes.

The house features a split-level ground floor which, had it been built during the time of the previous building, would have housed livestock. Instead, the space is used to accommodate four bedrooms and built-in storage.

A staircase connects this space with the living room and has an integrated bookshelf that dominates the living room space. Next to the living room are the kitchen and dining room, along with additional storage spaces and closets. Sliding doors lead out to different terraces.